HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (TENNESSEE VALLEY LIVING) - Big dreams are taking center stage for two North Alabama students — and they’re making state history along the way.
Linda Mathis of Lee High School and Lucas McMinemon of Hartselle High School were named Best Actress and Best Actor at The Tallulah Awards, Alabama’s first Regional High School Musical Theatre Awards Program. Named in honor of legendary Huntsville-born actress Tallulah Bankhead, the program celebrates the state’s brightest young theatre talent.
Mathis and McMinemon stopped by the studio to share more about their theatre journeys and excitement to compete on a bigger scale!
Their victories earned them a coveted spot at the National High School Musical Theatre Awards, known as the Jimmy Awards, where they’ll represent Alabama on Broadway this June.
The 17th Annual Jimmy Awards will feature 116 nominees from 58 cities across the country, but this year carries special significance for Alabama.
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For the first time, the state has a seat at the table.
Following an intensive 10-day Broadway Bootcamp, Linda and Lucas will perform at New York City’s iconic Minskoff Theatre for a chance at snagging the top title.
As Linda and Lucas prepare to step onto a Broadway stage, they’re not only chasing their own dreams — they’re opening doors for future generations of Alabama performers. And all of North Alabama will be cheering them on!
Keep up with the 2026 Tallulah Award winners on Facebook and Instagram!
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